Few sign up for new do-not-knock list

MACHESNEY PARK — The village’s new “do not knock” registry has kicked off to less fanfare than expected.

Kevin Haas

MACHESNEY PARK — The village’s new “do not knock” registry has kicked off to less fanfare than expected.

Only 26 people have signed up so far for the list that keeps solicitors at bay.

That list includes Village President Tom Strickland, who pushed for the new soliciting laws after he received several complaints about pushy salespeople.

“I’m disappointed because, after all of the complaints when I first started (as village president) last summer, more people haven’t come up and signed up for this,” Strickland said.

Strickland was one of the first people to add his address to the “do not knock” list after the new law was approved March 1.

The proposal also increased the application fee for solicitors by $50, meaning a sales license now costs $75. Those who go door-to-door are also required to wear a $75 identification badge.

Formerly, the first two IDs were issued at no cost, with the third costing $2.

No door-to-door solicitors have obtained a license from the village since the new law went into effect. Officials said, however, that they have responded to unlicensed sellers in Machesney Park neighborhoods.

With weather getting warmer, and door-to-door sales expected to pick up, officials are reminding residents they can sign up for the list at Village Hall. Those who want to register can call 815-877-5432 or go online to machesney-park.il.us.

Staff writer Kevin Haas can be reached at khaas@rrstar.com or 815-987-1354.